Dr. Bütter’s commitment to children’s health extends beyond the operating room. Through research, she is seeking answers to some of the most pressing paediatric surgical health questions in Canada.
A Passion for Paediatric Surgery
Dr. Bütter’s journey to Paediatric Surgery was driven by an early passion for working with children. Originally planning to become a Paediatrician, she soon discovered her love for surgery during medical school and realized she could combine both interests. After five years of general surgery training and an additional two years specializing in Paediatric Surgery, she embarked on a career where each day presents new challenges and opportunities to make a difference.
“I love working with children and their families,” Dr. Bütter explains. “There’s an incredible satisfaction in taking a very sick child, performing a necessary surgery, and seeing them go on to grow, thrive, and live a normal life. It’s an unbelievable feeling and a great honour and privilege to help them through some of the most difficult times in their lives.”
At Children’s Hospital in London, Ontario, countless young lives have been touched by the dedication and skill of Dr. Andreana Bütter, Chair/Chief of the Division of Paediatric Surgery. For nearly two decades, Dr. Bütter has performed life-changing surgeries on children, from premature newborns to teenagers, facing a wide range of complex medical conditions. But beyond her technical expertise, it is her compassion, perseverance and commitment to her patients that truly set her apart.
The Life-Changing Impact of Surgery
One such remarkable story is that of Sully, a young boy who has become a symbol of resilience and hope. Born with a rare congenital condition called Hirschsprung’s disease, which affects the intestines and causes severe digestive complications, Sully’s journey began with emergency surgery in Detroit before he was eventually transferred to London for specialized care.
Dr. Bütter and her team provided ongoing treatment, performing multiple surgeries to address his condition. As a baby, Sully faced a difficult road, requiring an ileostomy to manage his symptoms until he was strong enough for a more definitive procedure. At almost two years old, he underwent a major reconstructive surgery to restore normal bowel function, followed by his final surgery in October 2023. Today, thanks to the expert care he received, Sully is thriving — growing, playing and living life as an active little boy.
“It’s incredible to see children like Sully go from being so sick and fragile to running around and being full of energy,” Dr. Bütter says. “His journey is a testament to the resilience of children and the power of specialized Paediatric care.”
Advancing Paediatric Surgery and Research
Dr. Bütter’s commitment to children’s health extends beyond the operating room. Through research, she is seeking answers to some of the most pressing paediatric surgical health questions in Canada. As an academic surgeon, she dedicates time to teaching the next generation of medical professionals and conducting groundbreaking research. Recently, she co-led a major international study on appendicitis treatment in children, helping establish best practices that will benefit young patients worldwide.
Additionally, Dr. Bütter is part of an exciting research collaboration between London, Toronto and Guelph, where she and her colleagues have secured a substantial research grant from the Canadian Institute of Health Research to study congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), a life-threatening condition in newborns. The goal of this work is to improve survival rates and outcomes for babies
born with this severe condition.
The Role of Donor Support in Paediatric Surgery
Much of what is possible at Children’s Hospital is made possible by the generosity of donors. From specialized surgical equipment to improved facilities and innovative research, donor contributions directly impact the lives of young patients like Sully.
“Any support that helps us provide the highest level of surgical care is invaluable,” Dr. Bütter shares. “Whether it’s funding a new piece of equipment or supporting a research initiative, every dollar makes a difference in the lives of children and their families.”
Looking to the Future
As Paediatric Surgery continues to evolve, Dr. Bütter envisions a future where young patients receive even more specialized, seamless care. One of her biggest hopes is to improve the transition from paediatric to adult care for children with lifelong medical conditions.
“We’ve made tremendous progress in saving babies with complex conditions who wouldn’t have survived 20 years ago,” she says. “Now, we need to ensure they continue to receive the best care as they grow into adulthood.”
From research breakthroughs to life-saving surgical techniques, Dr. Bütter is leading advancements that have the potential to transform lives and give children the opportunity to grow stronger. And thanks to the support of Children’s Health Foundation and its generous donors, more children like Sully will receive the life-saving care they need to grow, thrive and achieve their full potential. With your help, Hope Lives.
